Every minute, an average of 24 people become victims of rape, physical abuse, or domestic violence cases in the United States. That adds up to over 10 million people every year, many of whom are forced to navigate the legal system under immense emotional and physical stress. Domestic abuse legal representation is therefore essential. Let’s learn more.
What You Should Know About Domestic Violence Cases in Michigan
In Michigan, domestic violence isn’t limited to physical harm. It includes emotional abuse, stalking, sexual assault, threats, and controlling behaviors. These actions must be committed by someone with whom the victim has a personal relationship, including:
- spouses or former spouses
- individuals in a dating relationship
- people with a child in common
- current or former household members
Under Michigan law, domestic violence can involve criminal charges and civil protection orders. Contact Richards Family Law to learn more about domestic abuse legal representation.
Domestic violence cases in Michigan can carry serious legal and life-altering implications, so understand your rights and legal options. For example, you may be able to file or contest a personal protection order (PPO) or secure fair divorce settlements in the context of abuse. Without skilled representation, however, you may risk unfavorable outcomes that might jeopardize your parenting rights or safety.
Getting a Personal Protection Order (PPO)
Michigan courts can issue Personal Protection Orders to protect those involved in domestic violence cases from threats or acts of violence. Domestic relationship PPOs are for people with close personal ties, while stalking PPOs are for victims of repeated unwanted contact or harassment.
Domestic abuse legal representation can help you with filing an ex parte PPO request or presenting evidence in a contested hearing. They can also respond to false or retaliatory personal protection order filings and ensure standing orders include appropriate provisions, such as no contact or firearm surrender.
Child Custody and Domestic Violence Cases: Michigan Law Revealed
Michigan courts always prioritize the best interest of the child, so a history of domestic violence is a significant factor in child custody cases.
Under the Michigan Child Custody Act, evidence of domestic violence can influence the court’s decision regarding legal and physical custody. Courts may order supervised visitation, restrict parenting time, or grant sole legal or physical custody to the non-abusive parent. Judges consider physical harm patterns of control, intimidation, or emotional abuse, since each dynamic can negatively impact a child’s well-being.
Abusive parents must demonstrate that continued contact with the child is in their best interest, which is difficult if domestic violence is still present. This can be the start of an uphill legal battle without the right evidence or legal strategy. Richards Family Law attorneys can help victims present clear, credible documentation to support their domestic violence case.
False Allegation Representation
Michigan courts take domestic violence cases and allegations seriously, and rightfully so. However, false allegations or exaggerated claims can manipulate outcomes. If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic violence, a family law attorney can help collect evidence that challenges those claims.
Domestic abuse legal representation can also prevent PPO misuse in custody disputes and protect your visitation and parental rights. Domestic violence cases don’t always end with a single court order, so schedule a free consultation with an attorney today.
You Deserve Help with Domestic Violence Cases
No one should have to face the Michigan legal system alone, especially not after domestic violence. The guidance of an experienced family law attorney can make a tremendous difference in outcomes, whether seeking a personal protection order safeguarding your children or defending yourself from false allegations. Reach out now.
